According to research published in the Journal of Food Science and Technology, 100g of sweet potatoes contain about 30mg of calcium and 0.6mg of iron. Although not a rich source of calcium, iron like milk or red meat, regularly adding sweet potatoes to meals will bring significant benefits, especially when combined with other foods.
Dr. Joan Salge Blake, a nutritionist at Boston University (USA), said: "S sweet potatoes are high in beta-carotene, when eaten with foods rich in vitamin C such as oranges, lemons or green vegetables, the body will absorb iron better. This is a natural and economical way to improve iron deficiency anemia.
To optimize the absorption of calcium from sweet potatoes, experts recommend processing them by steaming or baking, instead of frying them with a lot of fat. In addition, sweet potatoes also contain fiber that helps digestion, control blood sugar and is good for the heart.
Experts also note that sweet potato supplementation should be combined with a varied diet: milk, small fish that eat whole bones, dark green vegetables... to provide enough calcium and iron needs every day.
From a rustic, easy-to-buy vegetable, sweet potatoes have proven their high nutritional value, a smart choice to help take care of bone health and prevent anemia in a simple and economical way.
